Tascam DR-70D 4-Channel Audio Recorder for DSLR Cameras

The Tascam DR-70D captures 4-channel audio from its built-in mics and four XLR/TRS inputs while mounted under or on top of a DSLR camera.

Two built-in omnidirectional mics record natural stereo sound on their own. The four XLR/TRS combo inputs take mics or +4 dBu line sources, with 24 V or 48 V phantom power for condenser mics. A 3.5 mm input with plug-in power takes video mics and other high-output mics on channels 1 and 2.

Recording

The DR-70D records WAV or BWF files at 44.1, 48, or 96 kHz and 16 or 24 bits to SD, SDHC, or SDXC cards up to 128 GB. It records up to four channels at once, mixes them down to stereo, and its dual recording function writes two files at different levels at the same time.

HDDA mic preamps reach an equivalent input noise of −120 dBu, and the inputs accept up to +24 dBu. Each input has its own level knob, and the mixer adds pan, a limiter, a low-cut filter at 40, 80, 120, 180, or 220 Hz, and a delay that lines up mics at different distances. Mid-side decoding works with MS mic setups.

Camera Use

A removable camera attachment screw on top and a 1/4-inch tripod thread underneath put the recorder between the tripod and the camera, and a hot shoe mount sets it on top of the camera instead. Handles on each side protect the screen and take a shoulder belt.

The camera output sends the mix to the camera, with an output volume dial to match the camera’s input, and the camera input lets the headphones monitor the camera’s audio. Slate tones, automatic or from the SLATE button, help line up sound and picture in editing.

Power

Four AA batteries, not included, run it for about 6 hours on the XLR/TRS inputs without phantom power, or about 11 hours on the built-in mics, and it takes alkaline or NiMH cells. It also runs on USB bus power through its micro USB port or on the Tascam PS-P520U AC adapter, sold separately. A remote jack takes the optional Tascam RC-10 remote control and RC-3F footswitch.

Features

• Two built-in omnidirectional mics
• Four XLR/TRS combo inputs with 24 V or 48 V phantom power
• Up to four channels at once, with stereo mixdown and dual recording
• WAV or BWF at up to 96 kHz/24-bit to SD cards up to 128 GB
• HDDA mic preamps with −120 dBu equivalent input noise
• Limiter, five-step low-cut filter, mic delay, and mid-side decoding
• Camera output with level dial, camera monitoring input, and slate tones
• Mounts under the camera, on a tripod, or on a hot shoe